Fifty cats were euthanized to curb outbreak of a deadly feline virus at Sacramento animal shelter. The workers were forced to subject the cats to mercy killing when they noticed symptoms of panleukopenia, a viral infection commonly known as feline distemper.

Five animals tested positive for the viral disease. Within a short span of time 50 – 60 cats showed symptoms of the disease as they shared the same area.

Administrative Officer Donna Wicky said, "It's heartbreaking to have to look into a cat that's healthy one minute, and then the next, you know is not going to be. The staff has been devastated."

The cause of the outbreak is being investigated.  All cats in the city shelter are vaccinated for panleukopenia. The disease spreads through bodily fluids. But it can also be transmitted via common bedding, food dishes or human contact.

Sacramento city spokeswoman Rhea Allen informed that a thorough cleaning and disinfecting process was being carried out at the  shelter. It would be re –opened after completing the cleaning and disinfecting.